Paying cash for e-hailing: how it works on Loop

Not everyone wants to put a card in an app. Some people do not have a bank card at all. That is why cash still matters for e-hailing in South Africa.

Here is how paying cash works on Loop, in plain language.

Can I pay cash on Loop?

Yes. When you book, choose Cash as your payment. You will see the fare before you book, so you know exactly how much to have ready.

At the end of the trip, pay your driver the amount shown in the app. That is it.

Do I need a card to sign up?

No. You sign up with your phone number and a 6-digit code. You can add a card later if you want to, but you do not have to.

How does the wallet work with cash?

Loop has a wallet you can top up. If you have money in your wallet, it is used first. That lowers the amount you pay in cash.

For example: your trip is R80 and you have R20 in your wallet. The app uses the R20 first, so you pay R60 in cash.

Refunds also go back to your wallet, so you can use them on your next ride.

Are there any limits on cash?

A few trips need a quick account check before you can pay cash, to keep everyone safe. For example:

• Group rides (2 to 4 people) need a quick account check first: a selfie and your ID. It takes about a minute.
• Trips you book for someone else are card-only until your account is verified.

Your account can also be verified automatically after a few good card trips.

Tips for a smooth cash ride

• Have the right amount ready. Drivers may not always have change.
• Pay only what the app shows. Never agree to a different price.
• Never take an off-app trip, even if it is cheaper. You lose tracking, support and your trip record.
• Want to tip? You can tip in the app after the trip, and 100% goes to your driver.
• Keep your receipt. Every trip has a receipt in the app.

What about drivers? Is cash safe for them?

We think about drivers too. Carrying lots of cash is risky. So:

• Loop has a daily cash limit for drivers, so they carry less cash.
• Drivers can choose whether they accept cash trips.
• There are no daily cash drop-offs. When a driver takes cash, they owe Loop its share. Card trips pay that down automatically, and drivers can settle the rest online.

Cash, card or wallet: which is best?

It depends on you.

• Cash is simple and needs no bank card.
• Card is quick: save it once and pay in the app. If a payment does not go through, your booking is cancelled and nothing is held. Card payments are secured by Peach Payments.
• Wallet is handy for regular riders and for promo credits or refunds.

You can switch for each trip. Pick what works for you that day.

Read next: how e-hailing fares are worked out.